Why the Giants aren't dead yet

A closer look at the numbers reveals NYG could rebound, make playoff push

AP Photo/Evan PinkusThere may be hope yet for Eli Manning, Tom Coughlin and the 0-4 New York Giants.

The most memorable recent New York Giants stories revolve around their ability to turn what look to be daunting circumstances (0-2 start in 2007, four-game losing streak in the middle of the 2011 campaign) into Super Bowl titles.

That background notwithstanding, the condition of this year's Giants club is such that it seems to preclude any kind of in-season turnaround. Going 0-4 is bad enough, but doing so while giving up 36.5 points per game -- a total that ESPN Stats & Information notes is the fifth-most points per game allowed through four games since the merger -- and ranking 30th in the league in rushing yards per game (57.8) looks to be a recipe for a high first-round pick in the 2014 NFL draft.

However, that thought process may need to be put on hold. After taking a closer look at the game tapes and metrics, it turns out the Giants could be on the verge of making a turnaround that gives them a solid chance of winning the NFC East.

This case starts by clearing up the perception of just how bad the Giants' defense has been this year.

To read more about why the New York Giants could turn around their season, you must be an ESPN Insider.